Adding color to your maps! iDesktopX's diverse visualization techniques

Hello! I'm ippuku_time, a GIS implementation support consultant.

Welcome to the seventh installment of the "Learn SuperMap iDesktopX in 5 Minutes" series.

Last time, we explored iDesktopX's powerful data processing capabilities. This time, let's focus on how to transform that organized data into a communicative map. With iDesktopX's diverse visualization features, you can vividly express the story your data tells.

Visualization: More Than Just Displaying Data

In GIS, visualization is not merely about displaying data on a map — it's about communicating insights. By effectively using color, shape, size, and transparency, you can reveal patterns and relationships intuitively. iDesktopX offers a wide range of tools to achieve just that.

Advanced map visualization of Minato Ward using SuperMap iDesktopX

1. Symbolization: The Basic Language of Maps

Symbols represent the features on a map. In iDesktopX, you can fine-tune the styles of points, lines, and polygons to achieve professional results.

(1) Point Symbols: Represent locations like stations or public facilities in Minato Ward. iDesktopX includes a rich symbol library — from station icons to building symbols — and also supports registering your own image files.

(2) Line Symbols: Represent features like the Metropolitan Expressway, JR Yamanote Line, or rivers. Beyond solid lines, you can create complex patterns (e.g., railway tracks) and adjust color, thickness, endpoints, and joints.

(3) Polygon Symbols: Represent areas such as Shiba Park, Zojoji Temple, or buildings. Fill them with solid colors, hatching, or gradients for a polished look.

2. Map Control and Interactivity

iDesktopX enhances map understanding with a range of interactive tools:

(1) Swipe Function: Perfect for comparing two maps from different time periods. For example, overlay a 1980s Minato Ward map with a current aerial photo and use the swipe bar to visualize urban development over time.

(2) Hawk's Eye (Overview Map): When zoomed in, this small window shows your current view area. You can also navigate quickly by dragging the rectangle.

(3) Search and Locate: Instantly find objects by their attributes (e.g., search "Tokyo Tower" to zoom directly to its location).

3. Drawing Tools for Professional-Looking Maps

Complete maps need not just data, but also supporting elements:

(1) Legends: Automatically or manually generate legends, customizing layout, text, and style.

(2) Map Grids: Add graticules and grids to enhance spatial awareness and accuracy.

(3) Standard Map Elements: Easily include standardized map boundaries, titles, scales, north arrows, and author details — just like official topographic maps.

4. Advanced Drawing Functions for Creative Expression

Style Transfer:

This standout feature uses AI to analyze the color tones of your favorite photos or illustrations and apply that color palette to your map. For instance, using a cherry blossom photo can transform your Minato Ward map into soft, spring-themed pink hues.

5. Visualizing Change Over Time with Time-Series Data

iDesktopX also allows you to animate temporal data for dynamic visualization.

Steps:

1)     Prepare your data with time/date fields.

2)     Enable Time Settings in the layer properties.

3)     Playback: Use the time slider to animate data changes (e.g., redevelopment or traffic volume) — and even export the animation as a GIF.

Summary

In this article, we explored the diverse visualization capabilities of iDesktopX that help turn data into meaningful communication. From basic symbolization and interactivity to AI-driven style transfer and time-series animations, iDesktopX offers everything needed to create beautiful and informative maps.

Creating maps that are both visually appealing and easy to understand is the key to maximizing the value of GIS.

Stay tuned for Part 8: "Talking with Data! A Master Guide to Creating Thematic Maps", where we'll dive into the art of making thematic maps — including individual value, graded, and statistical types.